Specifications
| Metal | Silver |
| Weight | 1 Troy Ounce |
| Purity | .999 Fine |
| Form Factor | Coin |
| Year | 2020 |
| Face Value | 1.50 Euro |
| Diameter | 37 mm |
| Thickness | 3.2 mm |
Design & Liquidity
The iconic design of the Austrian Philharmonic coin was created by Thomas Pesendorfer, the Chief Engraver of the Austrian Mint, with the design first introduced for the gold Philharmonic in 1989 and subsequently adapted for the silver version which debuted in 2008.
The obverse of the 2020 Austrian Silver Philharmonic coin prominently features the Great Organ of the Golden Hall in Vienna's Musikverein, the esteemed concert hall where the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra performs. Inscriptions in German encircle the organ, reading "REPUBLIK ÖSTERREICH" (Republic of Austria), along with the coin's weight "1 UNZE FEINSILBER" (1 Ounce Fine Silver), the year of mintage "2020", and its face value "1,50 EURO".
The reverse side of the coin showcases a harmonious arrangement of musical instruments, paying homage to the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. This detailed composition includes a cello centered with two violins on either side, accompanied by a bassoon, a harp, and a French horn. The inscription "WIENER PHILHARMONIKER" (Vienna Philharmonic) arches above the instruments, with "SILBER" (Silver) inscribed just below.
As a sovereign coin issued by the Austrian Mint, the Austrian Silver Philharmonic enjoys exceptional secondary market liquidity. It is consistently ranked among the world's best-selling bullion coins and is particularly popular across Europe, often being the top-selling silver bullion coin in the region. Its legal tender status within the Eurozone, denominated in Euros, further enhances its global recognition and ease of trade, making it a highly sought-after asset for both investors and collectors.
About the Mint
The Austrian Mint (Münze Österreich) boasts a rich and storied history, tracing its origins back to 1194. Its foundation is famously linked to Duke Leopold V of Austria, who reportedly used a significant portion of the ransom silver paid for the release of King Richard the Lionheart to strike the first coins in Vienna, marking the unofficial beginning of its minting tradition. While officially documented later, this event established Vienna as a significant center for coin production.
Since 1989, the Austrian Mint has operated as a public limited company and a proud subsidiary of the Oesterreichische Nationalbank, Austria's central bank. Today, it stands as the sole manufacturer of all Austrian coinage.
The Mint's most recognized and flagship product is undoubtedly the Vienna Philharmonic series, encompassing gold, silver, and platinum bullion coins that celebrate Austria's rich musical heritage. Prior to the Philharmonic's immense success, the silver Maria Theresa Thaler, first struck in 1741, held the title as its most famous product and is still produced today in its 1780 restrike version, making it arguably the most famous silver coin globally. A unique piece of trivia for numismatists is the creation of the "Big Phil" in 2004, a colossal 1,000-troy ounce gold Philharmonic coin with a face value of 100,000 euros, which at the time, was the world's largest coin.
